October 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 10/27/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • A discussion about current construction and maintenance projects for the city. He shares the progress of these projects:
    • Paving the Industrial Park
    • Stump and Northview residents need to fill out income qualifications with the City
    • Buckeye Addition in Clinton Township
    • Plaza Drive
    • There are about 70 active construction jobs right now
  • Mayor Starr shares information about the plan to create a new courthouse and police headquarters.
    • He talks about the 3 phases of this project: planning, design, and construction.
    • He is asking the public to share their thoughts and comments on the City’s website. Go to the documents page, and scroll down to where it says Public Meeting Open House – New Courthouse, Police Station. Then click on Comment Form and share your thoughts.
    • Mayor Starr shares the plan for the businesses that are being displaced during the construction of the new courthouse. 
  • Mayor Starr shares the updates for the State Route 13 project within the city.
    • He encourages residents to see the plans and share their comments on the City’s website.
    • Go to the documents page, scroll down to where it says Public Meeting Open House – SR13D Sandusky ST Realignment. You can click on the Exhibit files to see the plans. Then click on Comment Form and share your thoughts.
  • Mayor Starr shares updates from Mount Vernon City Council:
    • Committee Reports
    • Omni-Fiber Project is interested in broadband investment for fiber in the city
    • Legislation to continue TIF – Tax Incremental Financing
    • discussion on food truck operations within the city
    • purchase of playground equipment
    • contract with a local barber/beautician business
    • designation of a school zone in the Parrot Street area
    • ordinance to reclassify zoning along Upper Gilchrist Road
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Police Department
    • Shares an update on filling the vacant spot of Police Captain
    • St. Vincent DePaul school collection of teddy bears for officers
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department
    • Controlled burn at Ariel Foundation Park
    • thermal imaging camera donation
    • Fire Prevention Week
    • update on filling some open positions 
  • Mayor Starr shares a list of events planned for the City in November
    • Leaf Pickup starts on October 30. The schedule is on the City’s website.
    • Arts and Entertainment options
  • Immediate goals for November
    • Budget Planning
    • Finish the comment portion of the plans for the new Courthouse, the Police Department, and the State Route 13 Project
  • Mayor Starr tells us how we can pray for his team as they head into the month of November. He mentions that Proverbs 11:14 is giving him encouragement.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

  • Website – http://www.mountvernonohio.org
  • Facebook – The City of Mount Vernon
  • Twitter – CityMV1805
  • YouTube – The City of Mount Vernon
  • LinkedIn – City of Mount Vernon, Ohio

September 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 9/29/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • A discussion about current construction and maintenance projects for the city. He shares the progress of these projects:
    • Water line and sewage line work on Fairgrounds Road
    • Curbs, gutters, and sidewalk work on Plaza Drive
    • Industrial Park 
    • There are 70-80 active construction jobs right now
  • Mayor Starr shares information about a public meeting that is coming up on 10/5 to discuss the planning for changes to State Route 13 within the City. The design work and renderings will be shared with the public. The City encourages residents to come and share their comments and ask questions. The Ohio Department of Transportation will be at the meeting to share and answer questions. The meeting will be held at the Station Break Senior Citizens Center from 5-7 p.m.
  • He also shares information about a public meeting happening earlier on 10/5 from 3-4 p.m. at the Station Break. This meeting will discuss the design renderings for the City’s new Municipal Court Building and new Police Station. Attendees will be able to discuss the projects with City Officials, ask questions, and provide input.
  • Mayor Starr shares an update on the search for a Safety Service Director. He shares how the responsibilities of this position are being handled during the search. 
  • Mayor Starr shares his thoughts on the recent MVNU announcement to transform a downtown building at 18 East Vine Street into a state-of-the-art academic hub for students in the engineering and computer science programs. Mayor Starr also comments about how the Knox County Land Bank will be working to create new commercial spaces on the main floor of the building.
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council: The city joined the Sustainable 2050 Program through the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission. He talks about how this impacts us now and in the future.
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Police Department.
    • There is a conceptual drawing for the new police department. A public meeting will be held on 10/5 from 3 p.m.
    – 4 p.m.
    • at the Station Break Senior Citizens Center.
    • Update on filling the vacant spot of Police Captain that is open because of Scott McKnight’s retirement.
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department.
    • Organizational Assessment received from the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association. They identified 24 different recommendations for the department.
    • They have determined several areas to work on in this next year: community risk reduction area, fire inspections, fire prevention and safety activities and filling the position of Assistant Fire Chief, employment, and finding a location for a second fire station on the east end of the city.
  • Events planned for the City in October
    • Johnny Appleseed Apple Festival, 10/6, 5pm – 8pm
    • Junior Air Force ROTC Challenge Course, 10/14 at Ariel Foundation Park
  • Immediate goals for October
    • Fill the position of Safety Service DirectorAccelerate plans for the new Courthouse, Annex Building, and the Police Department
    • Wrap up construction project on Plaza Drive
  • Update on how public notices will be advertised on the City’s website instead of in a newspaper. A change in the law is going into effect in October. This will save the City over $50,000.
  • Mayor Starr tells us how we can pray for his team as they head into the month of October.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new Linked In page, City of Mount Vernon, Ohio. You can find routine updates, job postings, and more.
    Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

  • Website – http://www.mountvernonohio.org
  • Facebook – The City of Mount Vernon
  • Twitter – CityMV1805
  • YouTube – The City of Mount Vernon
  • LinkedIn – City of Mount Vernon, Ohio `

July 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 7/28/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • A discussion about current construction projects for the city
  • Update and timeline for the installation of traffic signals on Mansfield Ave.
  • Recent groundbreaking ceremony for the Retreat at Mount Vernon on Upper Gilchrist Road.
  • Recent discussions with West End residents about the homeless camp off Harcourt Road and Ohio 229.
  • State Grants given to MTVarts and the Woodward Opera House
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council including the adoption of NCA – New Community Authority
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Police Department
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department
  • Upcoming events in August for Mount Vernon
  • Goals for the month of August
  • Mayor Starr tells us how we can pray for his team as they head into the month of August.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new Linked In page, City of Mount Vernon, Ohio. You can find routine updates, job postings, and more.
    Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

  • Website – http://www.mountvernonohio.org
  • Facebook – The City of Mount Vernon
  • Twitter – CityMV1805
  • YouTube – The City of Mount Vernon
  • LinkedIn – City of Mount Vernon, Ohio `

June 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 6/30/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • A discussion about current construction projects for the city
  • Update on the removal of traffic signals on Mansfield Ave.
  • The recent vandalism at City Parks and how the city is combatting this problem. If residents see vandalism, please call 740-397-2222.
  • The City’s new sign restrictions
  • The new initiative called Pour It Forward with the City of Mount Vernon and The Salvation Army. This new program allows residents to help their neighbors by assisting with their utility bills.
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council including recent discussion on DORA and the signage for designated areas.
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Police Department
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department
  • The City’s plans for the 4th of July.
  • Parking and departure from Ariel Foundation Park on July 4th
  • Upcoming events in July for Mount Vernon
  • News that Mount Vernon is getting a Hampton Inn.
  • Goals for the month of July
  • Mayor Starr tells us how we can pray for his team as they head into the month of July.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new Linked In page, City of Mount Vernon, Ohio. You can find routine updates, job postings, and more.
    Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

  • Website – http://www.mountvernonohio.org
  • Facebook – The City of Mount Vernon
  • Twitter – CityMV1805
  • YouTube – The City of Mount Vernon
  • LinkedIn – City of Mount Vernon, Ohio

May 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 5/26/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • A discussion about current construction projects for the city
  • Update on the State Route 13 project and how the grant received from the state of Ohio will impact what we can do locally
  • Details about the public hearing coming up on 6/26 to discuss changes around the property of Mount Vernon Farmers Co-Op
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council including recent discussion on DORA, signage for designated areas, and the vision shared by Experience Mount Vernon
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Police Department including new hires and a grant for a community advocate liaison
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department including new hires and visits to elementary schools
  • Goals for the month of June
    • Decrease vandalism
    • Making our parks safer
    • New equipment at parks 
  • Upcoming events on the city’s calendar
    • Memorial Day Parade and Service
    • June First Friday
  • The opening and summer operation of the Hiawatha Water Park and Pool
  • Mayor Starr tells us how we can pray for his team as they head into the month of June.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new Linked In page, City of Mount Vernon, Ohio. You can find routine updates, job postings and more.
    Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

  • Website – http://www.mountvernonohio.org
  • Facebook – The City of Mount Vernon
  • Twitter – CityMV1805
  • YouTube – The City of Mount Vernon
  • LinkedIn – City of Mount Vernon, Ohio

April 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 4/28/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • A discussion about current construction and maintenance projects including a project to deal with storm water issues.
  • An update on city parks and the grounds maintenance.
  • Discussion on the 2023 cleanup that is coming soon in Mount Vernon
  • An update on the recommendation for senior housing from the Mount Vernon Planning Commission.
  • Information about the proposed plans for a housing development on Vernonview Drive, as housing is a huge need in the community.
  • Details on the opening day of Hiawatha Water Park. It will open on May 27th.
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council, including Mayor Starr’s thoughts on the legislation that passed on Monday for annexation in the city.
  • Discussion on what actions have been taken to improve the condition of Mount Vernon’s 12 ball fields.
  • Update on the City’s Police Department, including Mayor Starr’s thoughts on hiring a second community advocate.
  • An update from the Mount Vernon Fire Department.
  • Discussion on Mount Vernon’s adoption of residential ADA forms and how the forms benefit both citizens and first responders.
  • Mayor Matt Starr shares his goals for April, including:
    • Cleaning up the streets
    • Dealing with storm damage
    • Improving utility infrastructure
  • Mayor Starr shares about the events happening in the city in May, including the Mount Vernon Memorial Day Parade, which WNZR’s very own Joe Rinehart will MC!
  • Mayor Starr tells us how we can pray for his team as they head into the month of May.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new YouTube page, The City of Mount Vernon. Public city meetings will be livestreamed and archived on this page. Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

March 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 3/24/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • Mount Vernon City Council’s approval for the development of Liberty Crossing on Newark Road. Mayor Starr shares his excitement for what this means for the future growth of Mount Vernon.
  • Updates on construction and street work projects
  • Important steps to take when reporting potholes throughout the city – report a pothole by calling the MV Street Department, (740) 393-9501
  • Efforts to ask the state to restore the Local Government Fund, and the City’s plans if those funds are granted back to the city
  • Investigation Update on the recent vandalism at Mound View Cemetery and the inclusive playground at Memorial Park
  • Update on the Mount Vernon Police Department,which includes some officers receiving national recognition
  • Important warning for residents involving a letter in the mail about an energy aggregation project
  • Exciting news for Hiawatha Water Park as the summer approaches
  • Goals for the month of April
  • Mayor Matt Starr gives us ways to be in prayer for him and his team as April approaches
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand-new YouTube page, The City of Mount Vernon. Public city meetings will be will be livestreamed and archived on this page. Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

February 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 2/24/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • An update on current construction and maintenance projects including a project to deal with stormwater issues.
  • Discussion about the City’s Gas Aggregation program
  • Update on how the city has been recovering from the cyber-attack that occurred during the holidays.
  • Discussion on the new city-wide transportation plan and how it will help in our process for applying for grants.
  • Update on the City’s new contract for IT services with the Knox County Commissioners.
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Water and Wastewater Department, including the increase in water rates coming March 1st.
  • Discussion on the changes coming to the Hiawatha Water Park and Pool for this upcoming season.
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council:
    • Approved budgets for 2023
    • Contract approvals for design services for the Dan Emmett Neighborhood Block Grant Project
    • Approval to purchase new dump trucks
  • Update on the City’s Police Department, including the lateral transfers happening, and good news on how their PAK United community outreach helped them to receive the 2022 Excellence in Community Engagement award.
  • Update from the Fire Department including how they were able to secure a safer grant (securing adequate fire and emergency response) of over a million dollars!
  • Mayor Matt Starr shares his goals for March.
    • He wants to finish the parking garage project
    • He continues to host State of the City addresses to groups that are interested in hearing from him.
  • Mayor Starr shared his thoughts about our growth in Mount Vernon and Central Ohio and how we need to plan for it.
  • Mayor Starr asks that we pray that his team has clarity of thought and respectful understanding as we face the growth in our community.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new YouTube page, The City of Mount Vernon. Public city meetings will be live-streamed and archived on this page. Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

January 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 1/27/22.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • An update on the current state of Mount Vernon heading into this New Year.
  • An update on current construction and maintenance projects including a parking garage.
  • Discussion about a special event that was held to recognize members of the City’s Work Force, including members from the Fire Department, Judicial Area of Mount Vernon, and City Hall.
  • Discussion on one of Knox County Land Bank’s 2023 goals, a flood plan study for Mount Vernon’s West End. Mayor Matt Starr talks about how much money the city has set aside for this project, and how this project will create serious economic improvement.
  • Information about 2 building site clean-up projects that are coming to the city. Mayor Starr talks about how state support is helping clean up hazardous and underutilized sites.
  • Planned Neighborhood Development approved by the Mount Vernon Municipal Planning Commission. The site is called Liberty Crossing, which contains over 100 acres.
  • Update on the reorganization of the City’s Water and Wastewater Department.
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council:
    • Appropriations Resolution was approved. $63 million was appropriated.
    • Tax revenue is up from last year.
    • Looking at tools to offset costs for development and pay for infrastructure without impacting the taxpayer.
  • Update on the City’s Police Department, including their new home by Sychar Road.
  • Update from the Fire Department including the recent recognition for excellent service.
  • Mayor Matt Starr shares his goals for February.
    • He wants to fill some job openings in the city.
    • He also wants to see projects completed.
    • The Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council recently packed lunches for the Winter Sanctuary, and now they’ll be working with New Directions and the Teen Advisory Council.
    • Mayor Starr will be doing State of the City presentations.
  • Events happening this month, including city council meetings and the State of the City presentations.
  • Mayor Starr asks that we pray that his team has the wisdom and guidance in making good decisions to serve the community well.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new YouTube page, The City of Mount Vernon. Public city meetings will be live-streamed and archived on this page. Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

December 2022 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Thursday, 12/29/22.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • His overall thoughts on how the year of 2022 has gone for Mount Vernon
  • An overview of his experience with Food For The Hungry and the Kenyon Gala this year
  • An update on current construction and maintenance projects
    • Finishing the Municipal Parking Garage
    • State Route 13
    • Water Treatment Plant
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council
  • Updates on the City’s Police Department
  • Updates on the City’s Fire Department
  • Mayor Matt Starr shares his immediate and overall goals for the New Year
  • Mayor Matt Starr shares upcoming events for the City.
  • Mayor Matt Starr explains how residents can stay connected to City Hall and the Mayor’s Office by checking out the website and social media accounts.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

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